Luv Kush Ramlila at Red Fort: Where glamour meets the tradition

The world-famous Luv Kush Ramlila at Delhi’s historic Red Fort is back. This year, it promises to captivate audiences with a glittering lineup of stars from television and Bollywood. Combining tradition, technology and popular culture, the Luv Kush Ramlila has become one of the city’s most awaited annual cultural events, drawing thousands of devotees, theatre enthusiasts and families from across the Capital.

Leading the ensemble is Kinshuk Vaidya, a fan favourite and known by Gen Z for his role as Sanju in “Shaka Laka Boom Boom”. Having portrayed iconic characters like Arjuna in Karna Sangini and RadhaKrishn, Vaidya will take on the role of Lord Rama at the Luv Kush Ramlila for the first time.

“I have acted in many films and TV serials, but portraying Lord Rama on the Red Fort stage is truly a proud moment,” he said, highlighting the significance of performing at Delhi’s historic venue.

Riney Aryaa, who has won acclaim for playing Goddess Sita in popular TV series Vighnaharta Ganesh, assumes the role of Sita in the Ramlila, bringing grace and devotion to the character. Her portrayal promises to strike a perfect balance of strength and serenity, making Sita’s journey deeply relatable to viewers.

The powerhouse role of Lord Hanuman will be essayed by Malhar Pandya, known for his portrayals of Karna in RadhaKrishn, and other mythological figures on television.

Pandya, a devoted Hanuman follower, expressed his excitement: “It is an honour to perform the mighty Hanuman before thousands of devotees, live on stage.”

Adding cinematic glamour is Arya Babbar, who reprises his role as Ravana, having previously portrayed the demon king on television in Sankatmochan Mahabali Hanuman.

Veteran actor Rajesh Puri, with decades of experience in theatre, films and TV, will portray the minister of Raja Janak, lending depth and authenticity to the ensemble. Returning performers include North East Delhi MP and singer Manoj Tiwari as Lord Parshuram and singer Shankar Sahney as Kevat.

The stage itself, a three-storey replica of the Somnath Temple, complements the star cast, enhanced with 3D effects and AI technology to immerse viewers in the divine narrative. Yet, it is the performers who remain the main attraction, their presence blending devotion, talent, and charisma to make mythology come alive.